Jonathan Peterson

Jonathan Peterson is an Assistant Professor and current Dean of Natural and Applied Sciences at Hope College. He previously served as Chairperson of the Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences from 2001 to 2007.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Geology, University of Chicago (1989)
• B.A., Hope College (1984)

Research Interests: Dr. Peterson specializes in Environmental Geochemistry and Hydrogeology, focusing on groundwater remediation techniques, antibiotic-nanoparticle interactions, and global water quality assessments.

Scientific Contributions: His work includes

• Laboratory simulations of air-sparging for petroleum contaminant remediation
• Studies on antibiotic interactions with oxide nanoparticles
• A global survey of unimproved drinking water sources and point-of-use filtration

These projects emphasize undergraduate research collaboration.

Scientific Awards:

• Visiting summer professor at AuSable Institute of Environmental Studies (2014–2017)
• Appointed to the VanKley Endowed Chair in Geology & Environmental Science (2015)
• Resident Director, Oak Ridge Science Semester Program (2007, 2014)

Community Engagement: Dr. Peterson taught at AuSable Institute, plays trombone in the Hope College Concert Band, and is active in his church and the Holland community.